SIBU: An International Performing Arts Centre is needed here to further enhance the town arts industry, said Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee.
The Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government said that with the support of the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC), he intends to present the idea to the Sarawak Government.
He stressed that enhancement in the arts industry will also benefit other sectors such as the tourism industry as well as local businesses.
“In Kuching, plans are underway to repurpose the old State Legislative Assembly into a new Performing Arts Centre, providing a platform for our local artists.
“Therefore, I believe Sibu also requires a Performing Arts Centre, and I am confident that SMC shares this vision.
“On my part, I will propose this concept to the Sarawak Government for serious consideration, making it our primary objective,” he said.
He said this in his speech when officiating the Rejang Riverside Festival at Rejang Esplanade here last night (Mar 30).
Meanwhile, on the festival, the Pelawan assemblyman commended the efforts of Hornland Dance Theatre (HDT), led by Chen Ing Kuan, for organising the festival to offer a platform for local artists to showcase their talents to the public.
“HDT has actively organised various performing arts events for the past 30 years since its establishment in 1995.
“Your dedication and passion for this industry, your commitment to the performing arts, truly resonate with many,” he said.
Tiang said he believed that under Chen’s leadership, the HDT will continue to train and nurture new dancers, bring performing arts to Sibu’s forefront, and showcase our local artists across Malaysia and internationally,” he added.
Tiang also pledged financial support to HDT as a token of appreciation for their efforts in uplifting the dignity of performing arts in the region.
The festival, which commenced at 4pm, proceeded smoothly despite rainfall starting around 6pm.
Attendees seized the opportunity to witness performances of modern and traditional dances by local dancers from Sarawak, as well as performers from Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore.
